The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is set to launch the second edition of the CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026, a landmark national initiative aimed at strengthening coastal security awareness, national unity and community participation.

Addressing the media jointly in Chennai on 19 January 2026 the Inspector General of CISF, South Sector Shri. S.R. Saravanan and DIG Smt. R. Ponni said that India’s vast coastline is home to over 250 ports, including 72 EXIM ports that handle nearly 95% of the nation’s trade. These ports, along with refineries, shipyards, and nuclear power plants located along the coast, are critical to India’s economic growth and energy security. However, they also face persistent threats such as smuggling of drugs, arms, explosives, infiltration, and other illegal activities. For over five decades, CISF has been entrusted with safeguarding 12 major ports and other critical infrastructure along the coasts.

Building upon the success of the first CISF Coastal Cyclothon, the 2026 edition carries forward this historic movement with renewed resolve and a stronger national connect.

He further said that the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri. Nityanand Rai, will virtually flag off the CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026 on 28 January 2026 from the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi.

This year’s theme for the Cyclothon is “Surakshit Tat, Samridh Bharat” (Secure Coasts, Prosperous India) and carries the patriotic essence of Vande Mataram, symbolising national pride, unity, and collective responsibility towards safeguarding India’s coastline.

The Cyclothon is a 25-day, 6,553-kilometre cycling expedition covering the entire mainland coastline of India, making it one of the most extensive coastal cycling campaigns ever undertaken in the country.

• Two teams of CISF cyclists will commence simultaneously:
  • Western Coast: From Lakhpat Fort, Kachchh, Gujarat
  • Eastern Coast: From Bakkhali, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal
• After traversing coastal roads across the country, both teams will converge at Kochi, Kerala on 22 February 2026.
• Major cities en route include:
  • Western Coast: Surat, Mumbai, Goa, Mangaluru
  • Eastern Coast: Haldia, Konark, Paradip, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Puducherry, Kanyakumari

Participants and Preparation

• 130 CISF personnel including 65 women personnel, will participate in the Cyclothon, reflecting inclusivity, resilience and operational strength.
• All participants have undergone over a month of rigorous training, focusing on:
  • Endurance building
  • Nutrition management
  • Cycling safety and long-distance riding
  • Bicycle maintenance, posture optimisation, and efficient pedalling techniques
• Professional cyclists were engaged during preparatory sessions to fine-tune performance and safety standards.

Objectives of the Cyclothon

The CISF Coastal Cyclothon–2026 aims to:

• Sensitise coastal communities about threats such as smuggling of drugs, weapons, and explosives and encourage vigilance.
• Strengthen partnerships between coastal communities and security agencies for a robust coastal security network.
• Instil the spirit of Vande Mataram by honouring the sacrifices of freedom fighters, martyrs, and security personnel and their families.
• Celebrate India’s rich maritime heritage, traditions, history, and geography, highlighting the invaluable contribution of coastal communities, especially fishermen.
• Promote fitness, discipline and healthy lifestyles, particularly among youth and coastal communities.

 

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